Another "half" SVP Federal Councillor on the cards?
Published
In Swiss politics, there is debate over whether a so-called "half" SVP Federal Councillor could soon return. This refers to a person who is politically close to the SVP but is not a party member. One example is financial investor Alex Gantner.
Alex Gantner works as a financial investor. Until 2023, he sat in the Cantonal Council of the canton of Zurich for the FDP. Today he is non-partisan. Switching from a party to having no party affiliation is not unusual in Switzerland, but in connection with a possible election to the Federal Council, he is receiving particular attention.
The Federal Council is the seven-member government of Switzerland. Its members are elected by the United Federal Assembly, that is, the National Council and the Council of States together. Traditionally, the major parties are represented in the Federal Council, according to the so-called magic formula. The SVP has been entitled to two seats for several years. When a person without a party membership is elected, but who is close to the party, this is colloquially referred to as a "half" Federal Council seat.
The debate shows how important the question of the party-political composition of the government remains in Switzerland. How the situation will develop remains open. The decision ultimately lies with the Federal Assembly.
Sources: Inside Paradeplatz
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